97 XLT engine replacement

[desertbum8]

Hey guys. I have read a lot of posts here dealing with my XLT and just now registered because I need some help. I have a '97 XLT, V6 SOHC with 147k miles on it. I just rebuilt the engine because we had assumed there was a blown head gasket and the timing chain had a bad rattle. When that was over with it was running fine for a while but recently started up again. There is something leaking into the radiator but there is no water in the oil or tranny fluid. So I decided to replace the engine by either getting a crate deal or going to a junk yard. My question is does anyone have any ideas on where to go to get a somewhat cheap OEM engine? My other question is would it be possible to replace the V6 with a V8? What would need to be done in order to change it from a V6 to a V8? Any help would be greatly appreciated =-D

Edit: Something I forgot to ask earlier. When looking for the new engine, should I stick strictly to a '97 or what else would also work? I can't seem to find any info on other engine years that could be used.

 

[dcm0123]

Good search tool for used parts-

http://www.partshotlines.com/

 

[desertbum8]

Thanks for the site. Checking it out now. Do you have any idea if it would be possible to drop an 8-cyl. in instead of a 6?

 

[96eb96]

Thanks for the site. Checking it out now. Do you have any idea if it would be possible to drop an 8-cyl. in instead of a 6?

needs a 4r70w trans, new computer and wiring harness for starters.

 

[desertbum8]

needs a 4r70w trans, new computer and wiring harness for starters.

Ugh I was hoping it could be done without replacing the tranny. That sucks =-/